Child Upset Stomach Relief: Home Care & Red Flags

Supportive care for a child’s upset stomach:

• Rest: Limit activity.
• Hydration: Small, frequent sips of water, electrolyte solution, or broth. Avoid sugary drinks.
• Bland Diet: Rice, banana, toast, boiled chicken (BRAT diet). No fatty/spicy/acidic foods.
• Small, Frequent Meals: Reduces digestive load.
• Avoid Dairy: Can worsen symptoms.
• Ginger: Tea, candy, or grated in food for nausea.
• Peppermint: Tea or candy (avoid in infants).
• Warm Compress: On abdomen for cramps.

Seek medical care if: high fever, bloody stool, persistent vomiting, signs of dehydration (dry mouth, no tears, sunken eyes, lethargy), or symptoms >24 hours.

OTC medications only per clinician advice. Prevention: handwashing, food safety.